The precision and accuracy of laser cutting machines make them highly popular in industries, from small to large scale. Additionally, their ability to cut various materials and intricate patterns or designs makes them highly sought after by industry players.
However, before deciding to purchase such a machine, it’s essential to carefully consider several factors. Here are some important things to pay attention to before buying a laser cutting machine:
The first step before purchasing a laser cutting machine is to familiarize yourself with the different types of machines available. There are several common types on the market, including:
The first type is the CO2 laser, which uses carbon dioxide gas as the source of the laser beam. This machine is suitable for small to medium-sized industries, as it is relatively affordable and flexible enough to cut various materials.
However, CO2 laser machines are relatively slow when it comes to the cutting process and are not ideal for cutting thicker materials.
Next is the fiber laser, which uses optical fiber as the source of the laser. The laser beam from this type of machine is very strong and focused, making it highly suitable for cutting metal-based materials.
Fiber laser machines offer fast cutting speeds and very accurate, clean, and precise cuts. However, the cost of this machine is relatively high.
As the name suggests, the UV laser machine uses ultraviolet light as the source of the laser to cut materials. The cutting process involves vaporizing the material's surface.
UV laser machines are perfect for highly detailed designs. Additionally, very thin materials are best suited for cutting with this type of machine. However, UV laser machines are significantly more expensive compared to CO2 or fiber lasers.
After understanding the different types of machines, several factors need to be considered before purchasing a laser cutting machine:
Once you are familiar with the types of laser cutting machines, it’s important to consider their technical specifications. Here are some critical factors to pay attention to:
This determines the cutting speed and the material thickness that can be cut. The higher the laser power, the thicker the material that can be cut and the faster the cutting process. Before purchasing a laser cutting machine, consider how thick the materials you typically cut are and how fast you want the cutting process to be.
This specification relates to the size of the materials you usually cut. The larger the material to be cut, the larger the work area required. This factor should be adjusted for efficiency in both work and machine placement.
Cutting speed should be considered because it affects productivity. The faster the cutting speed, the more materials can be cut during a single day of operation. This should be aligned with your production needs.
Although almost all laser cutting machines offer high levels of cutting accuracy, it’s still essential to consider. Choose a laser cutting machine that fits the tolerance and accuracy required for the products you produce.
Aside from the types of laser cutting machines and technical specifications, there are several other essential features to consider. Some of these features include:
Software This component is used to operate the laser cutting machine and will impact the ease and flexibility of the design process. It’s advisable to thoroughly study the software used by the laser cutting machine before purchasing it.
Cooling System This feature plays a crucial role in the laser cutting machine. A high-quality cooling system will indirectly extend the machine’s lifespan and maintain the quality of the cuts.
Smoke Extraction System This feature is also important to consider. It protects the machine from dust and small particles generated during the cutting process and helps maintain the operator’s health.
Choosing the right supplier is critical when investing in a laser cutting machine. Consider the supplier’s reputation, such as PT Synergis Industrial Utama, an official distributor of Bodor laser cutting machines. In addition to reputation, look at the products offered, after-sales service, pricing, and technical support provided. Good after-sales service includes warranties, spare parts availability, and operator training.
As the official distributor of Bodor, PT Synergis Industrial Utama offers high-quality laser cutting machines at competitive prices. They also provide comprehensive after-sales services, from installation to training. By choosing PT Synergis Industrial Utama, you can ensure that your investment yields optimal results in the long term.
These are the essential factors to consider before purchasing a laser cutting machine, from selecting the appropriate type, and necessary specifications, to features that will enhance work efficiency.